The Scene

A different kind of resolution

January 4, 2013

The New Year's resolution - the joke that starts some time around or after Christmas - when people ask themselves and each other, "What is your New Year's resolution?"

For many, the resolution is losing weight, quitting a habit, saving more money, etc. But for many, these lifestyle-changing resolutions never last; some do not follow through. Some of the resolutions, if they even see the light of day, do not survive the first day, week or month.

New Year's resolutions set those who so optimistically declare that he or she will change or do something up for failure. So instead of failing and laughing about it like many of us do, why don't we set up these ridiculous goals, and more importantly, why are the resolutions as self centered as losing weight or self betterment? Why can't these goals - resolutions, whatever you want to call them - be something that benefits everyone?

Why can't we, as humans, offer something that could make a bigger impact on something outside of ourselves then see how these resolutions could be more of a evolution of the self? There are many ways to do this. Volunteering is one such example.

Many charities or organizations thrive off of the volunteer help they get from people in the community. Habitat for Humanity is one that gives back by giving a family a home. Animal shelters are constantly buried under the weight of unwanted, unloved or injured and abused animals. Volunteering an hour or two a week could change an animal and help the animal shelter more then one could ever imagine.

These are just a few examples of how an anti-selfish resolution can help someone beyond yourself and maybe show someone that others are possible of good.

If you don't feel that you have an enough time in your busy schedule to give a Saturday afternoon or an hour or two, what about donating? Whether it is clothes, food or money, donating is an easy way to give back to those that are less fortunate and can benefit you as well. By donating clothes, you are cleaning out your closets and getting rid of clothes that no longer fit. Food pantries are always in need of donations. If your New Year's resolution is to lose weight, cleaning out your own junk food supply is one way to start. While not many people are able to donate large amounts to charities, giving a few dollars here or there is always appreciated.

In the end, every little bit helps, whether it's money, time or goods, these little acts can always help someone.